Percutaneous techniques for tendon transfers in the foot and ankle

Abstract

Tendon transfer procedures are useful for replacing a dysfunctional or diseased tendon or for restoring muscle imbalance. The tendon to be transferred is harvested as distal as is necessary to provide adequate length for rerouting and attachment at the different site. The harvesting of tendon itself can be attained using an open surgical approach or minimally invasive percutaneous techniques that limit surgical exposure. This article describes percutaneous techniques for tendon transfer procedures used to address foot and ankle disorders.

Keywords: Achilles tendon; Chronic tear; Flexor digitorum longus; Flexor hallucis longus tendon; Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction; Tendinopathy.